Deaths, Cover-Ups and Bribes at Zimbabwe’s Lawless Redwing Mine
Thousands of artisanal gold miners toil in the dirt in a mine controlled by political elites
Family
Former Lottery Official Fails in Court Bid to Unfreeze His Pension Fund
Judge says former NLC chief risk officer Marubini Ramatsekisa didn’t explain how he could live at an expensive golf estate while claiming to be unemployed
President Cyril Ramaphosa Is Deeply Saddened by the Passing of Mr Ashwin Trikamjee
President Cyril Ramaphosa is deeply saddened by the passing of Mr Ashwin Trikamjee, President of the South African Hindu Maha Sabha and Chairperson of the National Religious Leaders Forum.
The President offers his condolences to the family, friends and associates of this outstanding icon of service to our nation who has passed on at the age of 80.
Mr Trikamjee was an attorney who served as president of the then Natal Law Society, president of the Association of Law Societies of SA, chairperson of the African Regional Forum of the International Bar Association and member of the Human Rights Committee of the IBA.
As a Black Consciousness activist, he also led the Durban Central component of the Natal Indian Congress, and he was a vice-president of the South African Football Association.
Mr Trikamjee's deep spiritual devotion extended beyond his Hindu affiliation as he advocated tolerance and collaboration among the diverse religious communities in our country.
President Ramaphosa said: “Ashwin Trikamjee led a life of diverse pursuits which he exercised to improve the lives of communities and the impact of organisations in which he served.
“We will miss his gentle, serene presence, wise counsel and humble yet industrious service to many sectors of our nation.
“May his soul rest in peace.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.
EThekwini Municipality commits to building houses for flood victims
EThekwini Municipality commits to building houses for flood victims
EThekwini Municipality Mayor Cyril Xaba says the city remains committed to ensuring that permanent houses are built for the families affected by the recent floods.
Speaking at during an Executive Council (Exco) meeting held this week, Xaba reported that between 19 February and 15 March 2025, the recurring floods have claimed the lives of 15 people and caused extensive damage to infrastructure.
Xaba said the report received from the Joint Operations Centre indicated that 1 452 houses and 5 939 people were affected. The worst affected areas include Inanda, Ntuzuma, KwaMashu, Pinetown, KwaDabeka and Lamontville.
Xaba conveyed the council’s heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased, saying that the city is working with the bereaved families to ensure that their loved ones receive a dignified burial.
“Together with the Premier [Thamsanqa Ntuli] and the Chairperson of Trading Services, Mduduzi Nkosi, we visited the affected families in Inanda and Lamontville, including those who have been relocated to family-friendly accommodation in the inner-city. As... [the three spheres of] government, we are committed to ensuring that permanent houses are built for these families,” Xaba said.
However, Xaba noted the challenges encountered in building permanent houses in identified sites.
He said the existing community members are not cooperating, either because they themselves are flood victims who have not been allocated houses, or they do not want low-cost houses in their neighbourhood.
“As the rains persist, we will continue to face the shortage of land to resettle flood victims, considering that the city has 603 informal settlements and some of them are located in flood-prone areas. Working together, we must intensify public awareness campaigns urging people not to settle in flood plains because the frequency and intensity of floods, due to climate change, poses a huge risk to human lives and infrastructure,” Xaba said.
Since 2017, the city has been experiencing recurring floods, and this has put a huge strain on the city’s water drainage system.
In eThekwini, stormwater systems are designed to handle a "1-in-10-year" storm event, Xaba said.
“Our large canals and river protection works are built to withstand 1-in-50 or 1-in-100-year storm events. In the last two months, we have been experiencing heavy downpours that we would ordinarily receive in every 20 - 40 years.
“It is in this context that we must continue to urge members of the community to dispose of waste in designated places so that during heavy rains, the same waste does not clog our drainage system and flood our homes,” Xaba said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 03/20/2025 - 10:09
147 views
Human Rights Festival celebrates liberation heroes
Human Rights Festival celebrates liberation heroes
Constitution Hill will this weekend host one of Gauteng’s key events – the 2025 Human Rights Festival from 20 to 23 March 2025.
“Celebrating it’s 7th year, the event invites the public to commemorate South Africa’s Human Rights Day and celebrate the memory of those liberation heroes who took a stand for human rights in the Sharpeville 1960 massacre.
“The festival aims to build greater awareness and knowledge around human rights and to promote the importance of an active citizenry,” said Constitution Hill in a statement.
This as South Africa marks Human Rights Day on 21 March 2025. Deputy President Paul Mashatile will on behalf of President Cyril Ramaphosa, deliver the keynote address at the commemoration event scheduled to take place at the Derrick Ferreira Stadium, in Kariega.
The 2025 Human Rights Festival serves as both a global inspiration and a display of the strength of South Africa’s ubuntu culture in working towards a just and inclusive society.
Civil society organisations have worked with Constitution Hill to shape a unique programme for the event.
Hosted on the apron of the Constitutional Court and using venues in the Old Fort and Women’s Jail, the festival will bring together a public audience; community-based organisations; social movements; government and non-governmental organisations, and international organisations.
The four-day event is free to all and gates open at 10h00 on all three days.
On Thursday, Gauteng MEC for Economic Development Lebogang Maile will deliver a powerful public lecture at Constitution Hill’s Women’s Jail Museum to honour the life and legacy of Mama Winnie Madikizela-Mandela.
The opening of Qhakaza: Pain Undefined Curated by Gift Kgosierileng, explores how Mama Winnie Mandela used fashion as a form of resistance and empowerment.
“Through carefully selected pieces, photographs, and multimedia installations, the exhibition highlights how her iconic style became a tool for reclaiming agency and asserting dignity in the face of systemic oppression,” said the statement.
There will also be non-governmental organisation (NGO) capacity building sessions; learners programs and public dialogue sessions. The day will end with an NGO and film makers networking session.
On Friday, the official opening ceremony will include the 1000 Drums for Solidarity. Drumming serves as a powerful tool to amplify marginalised voices and foster solidarity within community groups.
There will be multiple interactive sessions including workshops and dialogues; family fun at the children’s village; a local authors book fair and book readings; film festival showcasing local and global talent; live poetry segments and a curated maker’s market.
A live show will take place from 17h00 – 21h00, headlined by renowned jazz artist Mandisi Dyantyis.
On Sunday, Constitution Hill invites the public to the last day of the event to take a stand and join together for Human Rights in the 8km WeThePeopleWalk Walk through the city with a fun filled program kicking off from 7am.
The walk will return back to the site for various activities and a local makers market.
The festival takes place at Constitution Hill, formerly a site of prisons, where many great liberation leaders were incarcerated.
Today Constitution Hill has been transformed into a beacon of light for democracy and social justice. A living museum that executes multiple education, creative development, human rights and constitutional public programs throughout the year.
For more information visits www.humanrightsfestival.co.za. – SAnews.gov.za
Janine
Thu, 03/20/2025 - 10:23
72 views
Condolences for family of Ashwin Trikamjee
Condolences for family of Ashwin Trikamjee
President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed condolences on the passing of the President of the South African Hindu Maha Sabha and Chairperson of the National Religious Leaders' Forum, Ashwin Trikamjee.
Amongst others, Trikamjee was an esteemed lawyer and a Black Consciousness Activist, who championed religious tolerance.
“Ashwin Trikamjee led a life of diverse pursuits, which he exercised to improve the lives of communities and the impact of organisations in which he served.
“We will miss his gentle, serene presence, wise counsel and humble yet industrious service to many sectors of our nation. May his soul rest in peace,” President Ramaphosa said.
In a press statement, the Presidency hailed Trikamjee’s service as President of the then Natal Law Society, President of the Association of Law Societies of SA, Chairperson of the African Regional Forum of the International Bar Association (IBA) and member of the Human Rights Committee of the IBA.
“President Cyril Ramaphosa is deeply saddened by the passing of Mr Ashwin Trikamjee, President of the South African Hindu Maha Sabha and Chairperson of the National Religious Leaders Forum. The President offers his condolences to the family, friends and associates of this outstanding icon of service to our nation who has passed on at the age of 80.
“As a Black Consciousness activist, he also led the Durban Central component of the Natal Indian Congress, and he was a Vice-President of the South African Football Association.
“Mr Trikamjee’s deep spiritual devotion extended beyond his Hindu affiliation as he advocated tolerance and collaboration among the diverse religious communities in our country,” the Presidency said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 03/20/2025 - 09:11
95 views
Big Oil Find in Limpopo? Or Just False Hope?
Troubling questions for Booi Brothers about their exploration in Vhurivhuri
Motsoaledi urges all to help fight against ’silent killer’ TB
Motsoaledi urges all to help fight against ’silent killer’ TB
Minister of Health, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, says Tuberculosis (TB) has resulted in more deaths than all other infectious diseases combined but receives less attention.
In 2023 alone, TB claimed over 56 000 deaths in South Africa, despite being a preventable and treatable disease.
The Minister emphasised the urgent need to tackle this public health crisis and announced that the soon-to-be-launched End TB campaign aims to reduce TB-related deaths by 41% by 2035.
“TB is one of the oldest and deadliest diseases, yet it continues to be a silent killer,” said Motsoaledi on Wednesday.
“TB doesn’t make noise. And that’s the problem that we’re faced with. That’s why I’m saying we are faced with a very difficult job.”
The Minister called on everyone to act now to end this epidemic and save lives.
The Minister’s remarks come as Chairperson of the South African National AIDS Council (SANAC), Deputy President Paul Mashatile, will deliver the keynote address at the national World TB Day commemorative event on Monday, 24 March 2025.
World TB Day is commemorated annually on the 24th of March to raise public awareness about the global epidemic of TB and highlight efforts to eliminate the disease.
During the event on Monday, the Deputy President will also launch the national End TB campaign in Gamalakhe Township, Ugu District, KwaZulu-Natal.
According to the Minister, the End TB initiative aims to test five million people for the disease, leveraging the success of HIV treatment strategies to control disease and prevent drug resistance.
“When we say you want to test five million people, if one family member tested positive, we want to test the whole family. That’s what we are going to do.”
He noted that this infectious disease has killed more people than all other infectious including Ebola, malaria, yellow fever, smallpox, HIV/AIDS, COVID-19, influenza, and mpox.
In addition, Motsoaledi emphasised several key elements of the campaign, including the need for those who test positive to receive immediate treatment to prevent further transmission.
The Minister acknowledged the strong link between TB and HIV/AIDS and announced that the campaign will integrate the management of these two diseases, noting that TB kills 80% of people with HIV.
He highlighted the success of SANAC in bringing HIV/AIDS under control, observing the reduction in funerals over the past 15 years.
He suggested changing the name of SANAC to the South African National AIDS and TB Council to reflect the co-infection.
Meanwhile, he said the End TB campaign was a critical step in South Africa’s efforts to address the longstanding TB epidemic and improve the health and well-being of its citizens.
He also touched on the promising new M72/AS01E TB vaccine, funded by the Gates Foundation and Wellcome, with the trial being conducted by the Bill & Melinda Gates Medical Research Institute (Gates MRI), with preliminary results expected in 2027.
The Minister called on the media to be an ally in shaping public perceptions, creating awareness, and influencing action around the TB campaign.
He was of the view that by amplifying the message, the media can play a crucial role in mobilising communities to participate in the fight against TB.
“We cannot succeed in this battle without the support and engagement of the media.
“Together, we can raise awareness, dispel misconceptions, and empower people to take action against this preventable disease,” he stressed. – SAnews.go.za
Gabisile
Wed, 03/19/2025 - 15:02
94 views
Asylum Seekers Face Arrest While They Battle Broken System
Refugees without valid visas are blocked from applying for asylum
Home visits for incapacitated SASSA beneficiaries underway
Home visits for incapacitated SASSA beneficiaries underway
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) and Postbank have announced that a home visits program is underway for bedridden SASSA beneficiaries to replace their SASSA Gold Cards with Postbank Black Cards.
Postbank CEO Nikki Mbengashe announced this during a join media briefing by Postbank and SASSA on Monday in Pretoria.
Through the home visits program, SASSA and Postbank teams attend to beneficiaries from their places of residence, such as residential homes and nursing homes, and provide them grant access enabling services.
“We advise social grant beneficiaries and the public to be fully aware that home visits are available only for qualifying beneficiaries, and every request will be assessed on its merits applying strict criteria,” the CEO said.
The minimum criteria for a home visit request are as follows:
▪ Illness that may be considered to have rendered the beneficiary incapacitated in movements;
▪ People with incapacitating disability.
Beneficiaries are reminded that a note from a medical doctor, a social services worker official or a clinic’s medical report confirming the illness and complete incapacitation must accompany the request.
Bookings for home visits need to be made beforehand and they can be made directly through SASSA at any SASSA local offices, or telephonically through the SASSA Customer Care Centre on 0800 60 10 11 or the Postbank Call Centre on 0800 53 54 55.
Bookings for home visits can be made by a beneficiary directly or a person close to the beneficiary in terms of their movement and support. This person need not have any family relations with the beneficiary.
A beneficiary’s ID number, residential details and contact details will be required, and the beneficiary’s ID number shall be used as a reference number for any follow up enquiries.
“The home visits will be used to enable the beneficiaries to nominate a trusted individual to give authority over their account by signing a Postbank Account Access Authority letter.
“Postbank and SASSA plead with grant beneficiaries and the public that they must make home visits requests only where it is genuinely necessary, and the beneficiary meets the set criteria. To prevent abuse of the home visits system, any home visit requests for unqualifying beneficiaries will attract a R250 fine,” the CEO said.
The CEO urged beneficiaries to be on guard and not misled.
“We would like to warn beneficiaries not to be duped into changing banks without their [full understanding]. The only replacement bank for the gold card to the black card is Postbank.
“Only Postbank is running this process of swapping the SASSA gold card. Please be careful not to allow other people to confuse you to change banks without your consent,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Mon, 03/17/2025 - 14:50
174 views
Social Development visits funded community based organisations
Social Development visits funded community based organisations
The Department of Social Development is conducting nationwide oversight visits to various community-based organisations that are funded to render social development services across South Africa.
In a statement on Sunday, the department said the visits form part of the department’s ongoing measures to build and strengthen the capacity of non-governmental organisations that render much-needed services to communities.
This includes psychosocial support to vulnerable children and families, HIV prevention, teenage and unplanned pregnancies targeting children and young people.
The department highlighted that South Africa remains the epicentre of the HIV epidemic and there is a great need to prevent and reduce new infections, with a strong focus on young people.
“As one of the key departments in HIV and AIDS response, Social Development has developed a compendium of social and behaviour change programmes which seek to contribute to the reduction of new HIV infections as well as mitigate the impact of HIV/AIDS on individuals, families and communities.
“The compendium of programmes consists of the following programmes: You Only Live Once (YOLO), ChommY, Boys Championing Change, Men Championing Change, Family’s Matter and the Rock Leadership programme, which specifically targets traditional leaders,” the department said.
The community-based organisations that were visited last week include Brother Services Community Development in Bushbuckridge, Mpumalanga. The organisation received funding to prevent new HIV infections, child protection and teenage pregnancy in Lillydale and surrounding communities under the Bushbuckridge Local Municipality.
“With a staff complement of 23 receiving a monthly stipend and reaching over 5000 beneficiaries through its various programmes, the organisation plans to expand its services by working closely with local schools,” the department said.
A 2022 report by the Department of Health focusing on adolescent and youth district data showed that every year, young girls become pregnant, with Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, and Mpumalanga respectively identified as teenage pregnancy hot spots.
The department noted that early pregnancies among teenagers presents a myriad of long-term socio-economic challenges such as health risks for teenage mothers and their babies, perpetuating the cycle of intergenerational poverty due to early school dropout, the spread of HIV infections, emotional, psychological, and post-natal depression, among others.
“Social and behaviour change (SBC) programmes are essential components of HIV prevention represent one of the priority interventions highlighted in the National Strategic Plan for HIV, TB and STIs (2023-2028). Social and behaviour change efforts aim to reinforce protective sexual behaviour by addressing knowledge, attitudes, skills and social norms,” the department said.
In Limpopo, the Deputy Minister of Social Development Ganief Hendricks visited Nhlayiso Community Health Drop-in Centre, which renders care and support services persons living with HIV and AIDS as well as psychosocial social support services to orphans and vulnerable children in Greater Tzaneen under the Mopani District.
The organisation also works with local schools and health facilities to prevent teenage pregnancy, gender-based violence, substance use, addiction, and other substance-related harms.
“One of the key successes of the organisation is that it provides job opportunities for unemployed social service professionals such as social work graduates, social auxiliary workers and child and youth care workers,” the department said.
In line with its developmental mandate, the department will continue with its oversight visits to funded community-based organisations to monitor the effectiveness of the compendium of social and behaviour change programmes especially those that are targeted at children and young people. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Mon, 03/17/2025 - 10:07
3 views
Police rescue kidnapped Pakistani businessman
Police rescue kidnapped Pakistani businessman
Police rescued a 55-year-old Pakistani businessman and arrested four kidnappers in different locations in Gauteng on Thursday, following an intelligence-led operation.
“According to a preliminary report, the victim was kidnapped in Graaff-Reinet, in the Eastern Cape, earlier last month, by an unknown group of individuals who introduced themselves to the victim as immigration officials,” the South African Police Service 9SAPS) said in a statement.
“The victim allegedly accompanied these individuals to the nearest police station, but never returned home,” the police said.
The victim's family reported the kidnapping to the police after the kidnappers had allegedly demanded a ransom for the release of the victim.
A multi-disciplinary team comprising members from National Crime Intelligence, the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation in the Eastern Cape (DPCI - HAWKS), DPCI Tactical Operations Management Section (TOMS), Soweto Flying Squad and private security arrested two South Africans and two Pakistani nationals.
One kidnapper was arrested in Killarney and an unlicensed firearm was seized during the arrest.
The team also seized a vehicle during the operation.
The suspect led the team to the location of the victim in Evaton where two more kidnappers were arrested.
Further investigation resulted in the arrest of a fourth kidnapper in Benoni. A vehicle which is believed to have been used in the commission of the crime was also seized.
The four suspects are expected to appear before a magistrate’s court soon, while further investigations continue. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 03/14/2025 - 09:54
253 views
Tanzania Declares End of Marburg Virus Disease Outbreak
Tanzania today declared the end of Marburg virus disease outbreak after recording no new cases over 42 days since the death of the last confirmed case on 28 January 2025.
The outbreak, in which two confirmed and eight probable cases were recorded (all deceased), was the second the country has experienced. Both this outbreak, which was declared on 20 January 2025, and the one in 2023 occurred in the north-eastern Kagera region.
In response to the latest outbreak, Tanzania's health authorities set up coordination and response systems, with support from World Health Organization (WHO) and partners, at the national and regional levels and reinforced control measures to swiftly detect cases, enhance clinical care, infection prevention as well as strengthen collaboration with communities to raise awareness and help curb further spread of the virus.
Growing expertise in public health emergency response in the African region has been crucial in mounting effective outbreak control measures. Drawing on experience from the response to the 2023 Marburg virus disease outbreak, WHO worked closely with Tanzanian health authorities to rapidly scale up key measures such as disease surveillance and trained more than 1000 frontline health workers in contact tracing, clinical care and public health risk communication. The Organization also delivered over five tonnes of essential medical supplies and equipment.
“The dedication of frontline health workers and the efforts of the national authorities and our partners have paid off,” said Dr Charles Sagoe-Moses, WHO Representative in Tanzania. “While the outbreak has been declared over, we remain vigilant to respond swiftly if any cases are detected and are supporting ongoing efforts to provide psychosocial care to families affected by the outbreak.”
Building on the momentum during the acute phase of the outbreak response, measures have been put in place to reinforce the capacity of local health facilities to respond to potential future outbreaks. WHO and partners are procuring additional laboratory supplies and other equipment for disease detection and surveillance and other critical services.
Marburg virus disease is highly virulent and causes haemorrhagic fever. It belongs to the same family as the virus that causes Ebola virus disease. Illness caused by Marburg virus begins abruptly. Patients present with high fever, severe headache and severe malaise. They may develop severe haemorrhagic symptoms within seven days.
In the African region, previous outbreaks and sporadic cases have been reported in Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ghana, Kenya, Equatorial Guinea, Rwanda, South Africa and Uganda.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Health Organization - United Republic of Tanzania.
City of Ekurhuleni offers support to bereaved families of bus accident
City of Ekurhuleni offers support to bereaved families of bus accident
The City of Ekurhuleni Mayor Nkosiphindile Xhakaza, has assured the families of the 13 victims who lost their lives in an accident on Tuesday morning, that the city will provide them with the necessary support during this difficult time.
“We will ensure that we support them during this difficult time,” Xhakaza said.
Addressing the media on Wednesday, Xhakaza wished the injured passengers a speedy recovery.
“The accident which claimed the lives of 13 people happened yesterday [Tuesday] morning at about 6:32am, and the time, the bus was from Katlehong travelling to Kempton Park,” he said.
Xhakaza said the South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL) is assisting in the investigation into the accident and will be checking the surveillance cameras in the area.
Xhakaza confirmed that 77 passengers were transported to various hospitals across Ekurhuleni for medical care following the crash.
“We appreciate the manner in which our emergency services responded to the accident and assisted the injured. The city will provide counselling services to the affected family,” he said.
Xhakaza said the investigation into the cause of the accident is ongoing.
He confirmed that the bus involved in the crash belongs to the City of Ekurhuleni and was roadworthy at the time of the incident.
The mayor said the bus driver is an experienced professional, with both a valid driver’s license and a Professional Driving Permit (PDP), adding that at the time of the accident, the bus was carrying 89 passengers.
On Tuesday, Ekurhuleni Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Roads and Transport Planning, Andile Mngwevu extended his condolences to the families of the deceased.
According to the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), the crash involved a collision between the bus and a light motor vehicle (LMV).
RTMC spokesperson, Simon Zwane, said preliminary reports suggest that both vehicles were travelling in the third lane (from the right) of the R21.
"It is alleged that the LMV suddenly applied brakes after missing the off-ramp exit lane. In an attempt to avoid a collision, the bus driver also braked and swerved, resulting in the bus losing control, rotating clockwise, overturning, and coming to a rest in the off-ramp lane, facing south," Zwane said.
Meanwhile, President Cyril Ramaphosa has offered his condolences to the families who lost their loved ones.
"The President offers his condolences to the bereaved families and wishes survivors of the incident a speedy and full recovery,” the Presidency said in a statement.
The President said the country must reflect on driver behaviour.
“Incidents such as these impact on people’s ability to earn a living; they impact on our health and emergency services; they drive up insurance and result in expensive vehicle repairs, and they affect business who lose personnel in this process.
“As we reflect on the lives that have been lost, we must also reflect on the responsibility and conduct of everyone who gets in behind the wheel of a vehicle, big and small, in our country,” said the President. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 03/12/2025 - 14:13
363 views
UN Torture Prevention Body Welcomes Establishment of National Preventive Mechanisms in Benin, Madagascar, Nigeria, and South Africa
The UN Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture (SPT) hails the setting up of the national preventive mechanisms (NPMs) in Benin, Madagascar, Nigeria, and South Africa as a significant step in advancing and fulfilling their obligations under the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture (OPCAT).
“The OPCAT's torture prevention architecture is built on the partnership between the SPT, the international body designated by the treaty, and the NPMs, our national counterparts. These national partners play a crucial role in making the system work effectively. Today, we are delighted to welcome the NPMs of Benin, Madagascar, Nigeria, and South Africa to the global family of nearly 80 NPMs,” said María Luisa Romero, the SPT Chair.
“They now have the demanding tasks of ensuring their independence and effectiveness, as outlined in the OPCAT. At the same time, the authorities also have a duty to respect the NPMs' independence, provide financial resources to support their mandate, and implement their recommendations in good faith. The SPT stands ready to assist, advise and support these four new NPMs,” she added.
Under the OPCAT, the SPT monitors treatment and conditions for people deprived of liberty by conducting unannounced visits to police stations, prisons, psychiatric hospitals, immigration detention centres, drug rehabilitation centres and other places of deprivation of liberty. In this task, the SPT works closely with government authorities, the NPMs, other domestic monitoring bodies, as well as human rights institutions, and civil society to strengthen torture preventive measures.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR).
Condolences for R21 bus crash victims
Condolences for R21 bus crash victims
President Cyril Ramaphosa has offered his condolences to the families who lost loved ones in a bus crash on the R21 highway, near the OR Tambo International Airport, in Gauteng.
"The President offers his condolences to the bereaved families and wishes survivors of the incident a speedy and full recovery,” the Presidency said in a statement.
As of today, the death toll from the bus crash has risen to 16. Initially, 12 passengers were declared dead at the scene, with four additional fatalities occurring in the hospital.
According to the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), the crash involved a passenger bus owned by the City of Ekurhuleni and a light motor vehicle (LMV). The bus was carrying passengers from Katlehong to Pomona.
RTMC spokesperson Simon Zwane said preliminary reports suggest that both vehicles were travelling in the third lane (from the right) of the R21.
"It is alleged that the LMV suddenly applied brakes after missing the off-ramp exit lane.
"In an attempt to avoid a collision, the bus driver also braked and swerved, resulting in the bus losing control, rotating clockwise, overturning, and coming to a rest in the off-ramp lane, facing south," Zwane said.
The injured were transported to OR Tambo, Tembisa and Edenvale hospitals.
The President said the country must reflect on driver behaviour.
“Incidents such as these impact on people’s ability to earn a living; they impact on our health and emergency services; they drive up insurance and result in expensive vehicle repairs, and they affect business who lose personnel in this process.
“As we reflect on the lives that have been lost, we must also reflect on the responsibility and conduct of everyone who gets in behind the wheel of a vehicle, big and small, in our country,” said the President.
He further added that “when we ask how safe our roads are, we actually need to ask how safe we are as drivers and pedestrians. The biggest factor in crashes is human error, not law enforcement or road conditions.”
“Drivers must ensure vehicles are roadworthy and must obey the rules of the road. They are there to keep us safe. Where drivers ignore these rules, they stand a chance of losing their lives or being critically injured. And where they survive, they will end up in our courts and correctional centres,” the President said.
Call for caution
Meanwhile, the Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy and her Deputy Mkhuleko Hlengwa have joined the President in expressing their condolences to the families and loved ones of those who perished in Tuesday’s crash.
The Minister and Deputy Minister expressed deep concern over the spate of recent road crashes involving passenger busses where lives were lost.
The Minister and Deputy Minister have called for heightened caution and vigilance from all motorists and road users to ensure they stay safe on the roads at all times.
They also wished the injured a speedy recovery.
In his statement, President Ramaphosa said his thoughts were also with the families of at least nine bus passengers who lost their lives in an incident in KwaZulu-Natal at this past weekend, in which 39 people were injured as well.
“While the causes of these recent incidents are still under investigation, we are reminded that tragedies such as these leave more than physical scars, as they cause trauma that affects family relationships and the lives of survivors,” he said.
The accident occurred on Sunday afternoon when a bus, transporting members of the Twelve Apostles Church in Trinity from Richards Bay to Shakaskraal, near KwaDukuza, experienced a tyre burst.
READ | Condolences following N2 bus crash
The incident caused the driver to lose control of the vehicle.
Additionally, Minister Creecy has also expressed her concern at the spate of bus accidents.
“The Minister is extremely concerned that this is the third serious bus accident in the past week. Accordingly, she has instructed the RTMC to convene a meeting with all bus operators within the next week to discuss ways to enhance passenger safety in the bus industry,” said the department.
READ | RTMC to convene bus stakeholder engagement
-SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 03/11/2025 - 17:14
297 views
Construction of Homes for Bishopscourt Land Claimants Set to Begin
Displaced community received 12-hectares of prime property in affluent Cape Town suburb
People Living in Abandoned Cape Town Building Face Eviction
About 30 people have been living in 104 Darling Street for more than two decades
President Saddened by Loss of 16 Lives in Ekurhuleni Bus Crash
President Cyril Ramaphosa is deeply saddened by the reported deaths of 16 persons in a bus crash on the R21 near OR Tambo International Airport earlier today, Tuesday 11 March 2025.
The President offers his condolences to the bereaved families and wishes survivors of the incident a speedy and full recovery.
President Ramaphosa's thoughts are also with the families of at least nine bus passengers who lost their lives in an incident in KwaZulu-Natal this past weekend, in which 39 people were injured as well.
The President said: “While the causes of these recent incidents are still under investigation, we are reminded that tragedies such as these leave more than physical scars, as they cause trauma that affects family relationships and the lives of survivors.
Incidents such as these impact on people's ability to earn a living; they impact in our health and emergency services; they drive up insurance and result in expensive vehicle repairs, and they affect business who lose personnel in this process.
As we reflect on the lives that have been lost, we must also reflect on the responsibility and conduct of everyone who gets in behind the wheel of a vehicle, big and small, in our country.
When we ask how safe our roads are, we actually need to ask how safe we are as drivers and pedestrians. The biggest factor in crashes is human error, not law enforcement or road conditions.
Drivers must ensure vehicles are roadworthy and must obey the rules of the road. They are there to keep us safe.
Where drivers ignore these rules, they stand a chance of losing their lives or being critically injured. And where they survive, they will end up in our courts and correctional centres.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.
Breaking barriers: Mbali’s journey into the building industry
Breaking barriers: Mbali's journey into the building industry
Zandile Mbali had always dreamed of becoming a social worker, but due to financial difficulties, she was forced to put her education on hold, and struggled with uncertainty, unsure of how to move forward.
However, after years of being at home with no prospects, Mbali found a new path, one she never imagined for herself. This after a friend introduced her to the diverse training programmes offered at Xilembeni Project Centre of Excellence, a non-profit organisation (NPO) funded by the Gauteng Department of Social Development.
Today, the 32-year-old from Tsakane, Ekurhuleni, in the eastern part of Gauteng, is proudly studying Building Engineering at Xilembeni.
Mbali had initially hesitated at the thought of joining a male-dominated industry and the idea of lifting bricks, mixing concrete and working on construction sites seemed intimidating.
However, the encouragement of her classmates, mostly men, gave her the confidence to take a leap of faith.
“Women are underrepresented in the construction industry, but my dream is to start my own construction company. Turning back is not in my vocabulary. The men in my class are incredibly supportive, and that has made all the difference,” Mbali said.
Determined to succeed, she started researching the experiences women in construction go through, and she discovered some of the challenges they face, including discrimination, harassment, gender bias, and the struggle to balance work and family life.
However, Mbali also realised that the right work environment and support system could make all the difference.
On her first day at Xilembeni, Mbali was introduced to the basics of digging and setting a foundation, both literally and figuratively. With each passing day, her confidence grows, and she now looks forward to furthering her education and expanding her skills.
She hopes to inspire other young people, especially women, to explore opportunities beyond traditional careers.
“Many learners give up on life when they cannot afford university, not knowing that government offers opportunities like Xilembeni. I want to share this information because too many young people in my community are falling into dangerous lifestyles, such as substance abuse.”
Mbali was also pleasantly surprised by the support she received at Xilembeni, which not only provides training, but also offers transportation and daily meals, alleviating some of the burdens on the students.
With graduation now on the horizon, Mbali stands proudly as a future builder. Her next goal is to establish her own construction company, proving that no dream is too big — even in an industry historically dominated by men.
Her story is one of resilience, courage, and the power of second chances. Through hard work and determination, Mbali is not just learning to build structures; she is laying the foundation for a bright future. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 03/11/2025 - 15:13
190 views
Police Mum on Muhsin Hendricks Murder Investigation
Memorial held at Open Mosque in Wynberg at the weekend
Here’s How a Disabled Person Spent Their Grant
We spent time with 31-year-old Khanyo Mantshi from Khayelitsha who says his grant falls short of his needs
President pays tribute to gender activist Pamela Mabini
President pays tribute to gender activist Pamela Mabini
President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed condolences to the family, friends and fellow activists of Gqeberha-based whistleblower and gender activist Pamela Mabini.
Mabini played a vital role in supporting victims in the Timothy Omotoso alleged rape and trafficking case.
The 46-year-old woman was shot outside her home on Friday, 7 March 2025.
The President paid tribute to Mabini for standing up for women who experienced gender-based violence.
“…[Mabini] made it her mission to ensure the police and our courts brought perpetrators to justice. The brutality inflicted on Dr Gomolemo Mokae and Pam Mabini – and recently, Imam Muhsin Hendricks – demonstrate that violent criminals have no regard for the lives of South Africans, including selfless and caring citizens who become known publicly for the contributions they make to the upliftment and protection of fellow citizens.
“Their deaths and those of all victims of violence must move communities to work together more closely as citizens and in partnership with the police to prevent violence and to identify perpetrators in instances where attacks result.
“I call on anyone who has information about any criminal activity – including these current cases – to play your role in making South Africa safer by sharing information with the police or community police forums. All of us look forward to law enforcement agencies playing their role in bringing violent criminals to book,” the President said on Sunday.
Mokae, 61, was found dead in his Ga-Rankuwa, Pretoria, home on Wednesday, 5 March 2025, after he had last been seen on 28 February 2025. He had spent many years caring for patients in Ga-Rankuwa and was experiencing health problems of his own when he was shot in his bed.
The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi, joined the President in extending her heartfelt condolences and expressed deep sadness over the tragic murder of Mabini.
“The department of Justice and Constitutional Development remains committed to ensuring the safety of court users, court officials, presiding officers, community activists, witnesses, and whistleblowers.
“Efforts are underway to strengthen legal protections, including reviewing legislation to close loopholes that hinder these safeguards,” the Minister said.
She emphasised that serving as a friend of the court is not only an act of bravery but also essential for fostering a safer society.
While respecting the independence of the judiciary and law enforcement agencies, the Minister Kubayi urged for a swift and thorough investigation into this tragic loss.
She called on all relevant authorities to intensify efforts to combat gender-based violence and ensure safer communities.
Furthermore, the Minister encouraged whistleblowers not to be deterred by this act and urged anyone with information that could assist in solving this case to come forward. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Sun, 03/09/2025 - 14:49
221 views
RIP Dr Gomolemo Mokae
President Cyril Ramaphosa has been saddened by the violent death of renowned medical doctor, author and black consciousness intellectual and activist Dr Gomolemo Mokae.
Dr Mokae, 61, was found dead in his Ga-Rankuwa, Pretoria, home on Wednesday, 5 March 2025, after he had last been seen on February 28.
President Ramaphosa offers his deep condolences to the family, friends, neighbours, patients and comrades of Dr Mokae who was a former national spokesperson of the Azanian People's Organisation and a founder member of the Socialist Party of Azania.
In addition to his medical practice, Dr Mokae published several books and wrote for television as a proud exponent of his mother tongue, Setswana.
President Ramaphosa offers his condolences as well to the family, friends and fellow activists of Gqeberha-based whistleblower and gender activist Ms Pamela Mabini, 46, who was shot outside her home on Friday, 7 March.
President Ramaphosa said: “The brutality inflicted on Dr Mokae and Pam Mabini – and recently, Imam Muhsin Hendricks – demonstrate that violent criminals have no regard for the lives of South Africans, including selfless and caring citizens who become known publicly for the contributions they make to the upliftment and protection of fellow citizens.
Dr Mokae, who had spent many years caring for patients in Ga-Rankuwa was experiencing health problems of his own when he was shot in his bed.
Pam Mabini stood up for women who experienced gender-based violence and made her mission to ensure the police and our courts brought perpetrators to justice.
Their deaths and those of all victims of violence must move communities to work together more closely as citizens and in partnership with the police to prevent violence and to identify perpetrators in instances where attacks result.
I call on anyone who has information about any criminal activity – including these current cases – to play your role in making South Africa safer by sharing information with the police or community police forums.
All of us look forward to law enforcement agencies playing their role in bringing violent criminals to book.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.